New CQ women's group aiming to reduce the gender pay gap

WHEN it comes to pay packets, women around the world have had a raw deal compared to their male colleagues.

Determined to be a part of a solution to level the playing field, businesswoman Jennifer Lee joined international organisation BPW (Business & Professional Women) last year.

Ms Lee said her car dealing business frequently draws her to work in Central Queensland and after being inspired by the BPW group, she revealed a bold plan to gather CQ women together to launch a Rockhampton-based club.

Members can be any female who is in paid or voluntary work, including women who used to work and women who aspire to work.

She said the BPW goal was to take action for women's equality - at work, on boards and in leadership - by promoting personal development, mentoring and sharing of ideas and experiences.

CLUB FOUNDER: BPW's Jennifer Lee wants to support CQ women.Contributed

BPW's advocacy, projects, programs and partnerships focus on issues that affect women and workplaces such as pay inequity, accessible and affordable childcare, support for women's refuges and dealing with domestic violence.

"BPW Australia is the leading advocate for women on work-life balance and workplace equity issues, (the club) equips today's women with the skills they will need tomorrow," Ms Lee said.

"(The club) recognises that Australian women in the workforce want to advance in their careers and businesses and most are also balancing family and community responsibilities."

Ms Lee hoped local independent committees like CQ would decide on their own direction when they were fully established.

"The reason I wanted to set up the club in Central Queensland was to give back to the people who give to me, and I thought BPW was a good way of doing that."

"A local BPW club will give women the opportunity to connect with women, be informed on local and global issues for women and be part of the change to bring in gender equality in Australia."

BPW's website said it lobbies government at all levels - local, state and national and consults with business, industry and organisations to provide a gender perspective on key issues.

"Our members have the opportunity to influence government decisions on issues important to women by lobbying for policy and legislative change, developing their own skills and experience in the process. We take action to achieve women's equality in social, economic, community and political terms," BPW said.

Keppel MP Brittany Lauga is working to create awareness of the barriers women still experience.

Member for Keppel Brittany Lauga.Allan Reinikka ROK100518alauga1

"On average, starting salaries for women are 7 per cent less than for their male counterparts," Ms Lauga said.

"Women are twice as likely to do unpaid work and look after loved ones with a disability or aged parents.